Curriculum Design vs Curriculum Development

Curriculum Design, at times also referred to as Program Design, is the foundation of all effective learning. It is often confused with Curriculum Development. The two are different. Here is a summary of both.

Although each has its own important standpoint, both have the same focus, student success.

The design is the road map. The development is how the road will be enhanced and successful.

Another way to look at it would be to consider how to build a house; you start with a solid blueprint, the ideal location, and a good builder, experienced and dedicated. Without these essential elements, you may be disappointed with the results. This is your design, the high-level planning.

Next follows all that will make your house a home; this is the development, the details.

To create a program, start by drafting your design. You want to consider aspects such as: your institution’s mission, purpose, values, and culture; overarching program objectives; duration; content; employability; and evaluation. Factor in your delivery method: face to face or online, asynchronous vs synchronous.

Next comes the development stage, the details. It is the time when you write learning objectives for each course, decide on teaching strategies and methods, develop lesson plans and assessments, and choose textbooks and other resource materials.

Curriculum Design and Curriculum Development are time-consuming and best left in the hands of people who are familiar with the knowledge and skills required to bring fruition to your project in a timely manner.

At Beaulieu Education Solutions & Technologies a team of experts can design and develop your programs. We can transform your creativity and innovation into smart education deliverables to meet your student’s needs.